UK curriculum reform - advice for referees

Curriculum reforms in England, Wales and Northern
Ireland mean that applicants now present a mixture of qualifications, including
both old and new style GCSE and A levels. It is also more difficult for
teachers to predict final grades without the use of AS modules.

We will look at each applicant on an individual basis,
but the reference will be key in explaining the teaching within the school to
the admissions selector. We would also ask that referees provide a clear
explanation of any restrictions or difficulties they have faced in terms of
funding and subject availability, along with an explanation of the styles of
GCSE/A levels that have been taken. We will also be more reliant on applicants'
past academic history and references, and would also encourage referees to
comment on an applicant's level of achievement in the end of year 12
examinations where these have been held and also provide a picture of the
applicant's progress through both GCSE and A level study.